Best Pineapple Casserole

Among the many casserole recipes cherished in Southern cuisine, the Pineapple Casserole stands out for its simplicity and distinctive flavor combination. Often featured at festive gatherings like Easter, this dish combines the unlikely ingredients of pineapple and Cheddar cheese, creating a unique taste that captures the essence of Southern culinary innovation.

Key Ingredients of the Classic Pineapple Casserole

This dish might seem unusual at first with its combination of sweet and savory elements, but it has proven to be a delightful surprise to many. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Canned Pineapple: Using canned pineapple is advisable as it is typically sweeter and softer than fresh pineapple, and includes juice that is essential for binding the ingredients.
  • Sugar: Just a bit of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, contrasting nicely with the salty cheese and cracker topping.
  • Flour: This ingredient thickens the pineapple juice and sugar mixture, helping to stabilize the base of the casserole.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp Cheddar is traditional and recommended for its ability to meld beautifully with the sweet pineapple.
  • Butter: A staple in Southern cooking, butter is mixed with crackers to form a crispy, golden topping.
  • Ritz Crackers: These crackers provide a flaky, salty crust that complements the soft, sweet interior.

Is Pineapple Casserole a Dessert or a Side Dish?

Pineapple casserole offers versatile serving options. It can be a side dish, perfect alongside savory meats like Easter ham or barbecued ribs, or a dessert, enhanced with toppings like coconut flakes, chopped pecans, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Crafting the Perfect Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple Casserole

  1. Preparation: Start by mixing the pineapple with sugar and flour in your baking dish to create a stable base.
  2. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Cheddar evenly over the pineapple mixture to incorporate the cheesy goodness.
  3. Create the Topping: Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter for a crunchy finish.
  4. Bake: Cook your casserole until the top is golden and bubbly, covering with foil if it browns too quickly.

Pineapple Casserole: A Sweet and Savory Southern Delight

This Pineapple Casserole recipe brings a perfect balance of sweet pineapple and savory Cheddar cheese topped with a golden Ritz cracker crust. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, making it a favorite for family gatherings and festive occasions.

Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole

  • Pineapple chunks: 1 can (20 oz), drained
  • Crushed pineapple: 1 can (20 oz), drained
  • Granulated sugar: 1 cup
  • All-purpose flour: 6 tablespoons
  • Shredded Cheddar cheese: 2 cups
  • Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
  • Ritz crackers: 1 sleeve, crushed

Easy-to-Follow Directions

  • Serve Warm: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
  • Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with sugar, flour, and shredded Cheddar cheese. This creates a rich and cohesive base for your casserole.
  • Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pineapple and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. This mixture will form a crispy, flavorful topping for the casserole.
  • Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple base. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Best Pineapple Casserole

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